A Scottish Government fund aimed at boosting the attainment levels of the most deprived pupils is set to pay out over £4m to schools across the Highlands next year.

More than 2,300 schools across Scotland are set to benefit from the funding – including 183 across Highland Council's region.

The significant investment gives money directly to headteachers, allowing them to spend the money on local initiatives that will close the poverty-related attainment gap.

Kate Forbes MSP said: "The SNP has made closing the attainment gap our priority in this parliament – and the latest investment of over £4m in our schools and our children across the Highlands is a key part of that.

"Every child should have the best possible start in life, no matter their background – and the role that schools play in giving children the support they need is absolutely vital.

Gaelic educational resources organisation Stòrlann Naiseanta na Gàidhlig is sending a strong message of support and encouragement to parents considering Gaelic Medium Education for their child or children, as the dates for enrolment approach.

Stòrlann provides an impressive range of teaching materials for Gaelic education settings across Scotland — and is today stressing that it also supports parents who may not be able to speak Gaelic themselves and be concerned about how to support their child.

The main sources of support for parents are online: the gaelic4parents.com website and its Homework Help section, where parents can have live online chats with teachers and get answers to whatever Gaelic-related query they have.

Kate Forbes MSP, who is leading Scotland-wide campaign 'the Final Straw', welcomed news from CalMac that it will no longer use plastic straws.

Ms Forbes wrote to CalMac earlier this month asking them to reconsider their stance, and last week Sunnyside Primary School from Glasgow shared progress on their #NaeStrawAtAw project in a presentation to CalMac’s Community Board in Oban.

CalMac’s Environmental Manager, Klare Chamberlain said "We have been working with our suppliers over the last year or so to identify alternatives to single-use plastics and with our waste contractors to ensure than any alternatives can be suitably managed.

Following two decades of discussions with Scottish Water, a north-west community on Skye will finally get a new water pipe after Skye MSP Kate Forbes intervened.

The current water main, which supplies roughly 60 households, is an old concrete asbestos pipe, was installed in the 1960s, and is now well past its sell by date.

As a result, in the past year there have been several bursts, clearly indicating that it was time for Scottish Water to upgrade the pipe. This included at least seven bursts over a six month period within metres of a croft.

Kate Forbes MSP took up the case for Dunvegan crofter Alasdair MacLean, who first raised the issue 20 years ago whilst he was the Township Clerk of Roag Township.

Earlier this month, Scottish Water confirmed to Kate Forbes they planned to replace the pipe as a new project, after initially arguing that there wasn't sufficient need as it was not a priority.

Shirley Spear hit back at the international media yesterday (Tuesday January 23) after reports that the Isle of Skye was on a list entitled "12 places travellers might want to avoid in 2018.”

In a series of comments and responses on The Skye Times Facebook Page, Shirley said: "This is yet another sensationalised piece of "journalism" by CNN and also, on Fox News today, spreading like wildfire all over the world.

“Come on Skye! We need to pull together to counteract this type of publicity. We are much, much better than this description implies!”

The Isle of Skye has been named on a list entitled "12 places travelers might want to avoid in 2018."

The list by CNN Travel states that "the infrastructure of Scotland's largest island creaked under the pressure as thousands of tourists in coaches and cars plied its narrow lanes, making a beeline for the remote fairy pools at Glenbrittle, the iconic sunset spot at Elgol and the rocky Old Man of Storr, with traffic snarl ups an inevitable result.

"Eventually the residents of beautiful Skye said enough was enough after complaints of noise, overcrowding and even visitors urinating in public.

The list went on to suggest travellers explore other islands, such as Rum, Muck, Eigg and Jura or visit Skye outside of the summer.

A link to the list was shared on Skye Free Ads Facebook page, prompting anger from locals. Facebook user Calum Robert McEachern advised instead: "Simply come prepared with a place to stay and plenty of time to explore the island."

A dossier containing a list of 124 companies has been referred to Advertising Standards Authority as part of a campaign against unfair delivery charges.

The dossier, which has also been submitted to Trading Standards Scotland and Citizens Advice Scotland, was compiled after over two thousand complaints were submitted.

124 firms have been named where there is enough relevant information to be investigated further.

Many firms who advertise ‘free UK delivery’ or ‘free mainland delivery’ then charge consumers living in rural Scotland.

In some cases, consumers have had an order cancelled by the company after learning the address, been told that their mainland Scotland address counted as ‘offshore’ or been contacted after purchase with additional delivery charges.

The campaign is led by SNP MSP Richard Lochhead, who stated: "It is ridiculous and completely unfair that consumers in large parts of Scotland face higher delivery fees – sometimes even having their order refused or told that their mainland address is offshore.

The MacKinnon Memorial Hospital in Broadford has reopened to new admissions.

The hospital closed earlier on 15 January due to a number of patients being confirmed with flu.

The hospital has closed beds as a result of control of infection due to flu but is able to admit new patients.

Chrisann O’Halloran, senior charge nurse, said: “We have been able to reopen some of our beds today allowing us to admit new patients.

“We have also reopened to visitors but would ask that people refrain from visiting our patients in isolation rooms so as to reduce any risk of spread of infection.

“We fully appreciate there will be circumstances when visiting is of benefit to both patients and their families which we will look at on an individual basis and these can be discussed with myself as senior charge nurse.”

Year of Highland Council inaction has led to the "despicable state" of the Broadford Primary School building on the Isle of Skye, according to the constituency MSP.

Kate Forbes MSP spoke out after children at the school wrote to the council representatives and Cabinet Secretary for Education John Swinney about the desperate condition of their school building.

There is apparently no safe drinking water supply so pupils cannot brush their teeth at school, there is very limited access for wheelchair users because of the number of steps, pest control could not stop slugs reappearing in the classrooms, and even the external doors do not lock.

Some local children have asthma, and believe the damp is making their condition worse. There is also no gym hall.

Last year Highland Council leader Margaret Davidson visited the school, but thus far the local authority has not committed to any significant upgrades on the ailing premises.

Kate Forbes MSP said: "Broadford Primary School building is in a despicable state, and has been for many years.

"I visited the school just before Christmas and spoke to members of the parent council.

"Only by visiting do you truly appreciate the damp, rot and mould in the building and the obvious impact this must be having on children's learning and health.

Kate Forbes MSP is calling on constituents in the Highlands to contribute to the Scottish Government’s new consultation looking at the causes of social isolation and loneliness and how they can be addressed.

The consultation will run until 30 April and will thereafter feed into a new national strategy, one of the first in the world, to tackle loneliness and isolation. A national strategy to combat loneliness was a key ask of the Jo Cox Commission, which welcomed this announcement.

Views are also being sought on how communities can build on the work of the Scottish Government, and lead on ensuring those at risk of becoming lonely or isolated have access to the right support networks.

Kate Forbes MSP said: “It’s important that voices from across Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch get involved in the Scottish Government’s consultation to help shape the new loneliness and isolation strategy, especially since each and every one of us has a role to play in reducing loneliness in Scotland.

The late Rev Kenny MacDonald never gave up searching for his missing daughter Alison, pictured

The passing of Rev Kenny MacDonald has brought ‘much sadness and a great sense of loss’ to those who joined in the search for his missing daughter Alison.

The retired Free Church minister passed away on Saturday (January 20th) at Migdale Hospital, near Bonar Bridge, aged 83 years old. He had suffered for a number of years from Multiple Sclerosis and had lost his sight.

A native of Skinidin, Skye, he was ordained late in life, in 1984, as Free Church minister of Rosskeen after a long and multifaceted career - sometime a professional footballer (briefly on the books of Tottenham Hotspur) later a respected Customs officer in Stornoway and indeed among the first elected members of Comhairle nan Eilean, the new Western Isles Council.

Four patients have now tested positive for flu and there are a number of patients experiencing respiratory symptoms.

Yet while the Broadford hospital is also closed to visitors, the A&E and out-patients departments remain open.

Dr Willem Nel, NHS Highland’s Rural Practitioner and clinical lead for Skye, Lochalsh & Wester Ross, said: “The Memorial Hospital is closed to new admissions and for visitors, but A&E and the out-patients departments are operating as normal.

“Healthy young patients presenting themselves at MMH with flu symptoms and not deemed at risk, will be sent home with flu advice. Ideally, do not attend the hospital if you are suffering mild flu-like symptoms but rather take advice from your GP and pharmacist where possible.

A payment surcharge is when traders impose a charge on customers for making a payment.

An amendment was made to the Consumer Rights (Payment Surcharges) Regulations 2012, meaning that businesses cannot impose any surcharge for using consumer credit, debit or charge cards; similar payment methods that are not card-based (such as mobile phone based payment methods) and electronic payment services (such as Paypal.)

The ban on surcharges applies to all payments made by the methods of payments listed above, whether or not they are in relation to a contract. It covers not only payments for goods and services, but also taxes, charitable donations and other types of payment.

A Recruitment fayre highlighting NHS Highland jobs on Skye, Raasay and Lochalsh will be held on Wednesday 24 January.

The health board has teamed up with Jobcentre Plus staff to hold a ‘Jobs Fayre’ at the Portree Job Centre from 10am to 4pm.

With over ten local jobs or career opportunities currently on offer, jobseekers will have face-to-face access to NHS Highland staff from a variety of professional backgrounds about full and part time opportunities within the local health and social care sector.

Jobcentre Plus staff will also be on hand at the Portree Jobcentre at 24 Bayfield Road to provide support about how to tackle any barriers to employment, as well as expert advice and guidance on how obtain part-time employment within the new universal credit benefits system.

Rena Macleod, NHS Highland’s area manager for West Highland Operation Unit’s Care at Home Service (Skye, Lochalsh, West Ross & Lochaber), said: “There are a wide variety of jobs available across our health and social care sector for local residents in Skye, Raasay and Lochalsh. At the ‘Jobs Fayre’ on Wednesday 24th January we want to show local jobseekers that there are considerable opportunities for them to work in their own communities in a flexible way.

“The opportunities to be highlighted on the day include caring and drivers jobs in our care@home service, community support work, catering and domestic jobs in our hospital’s hotel services, and two health and social support worker posts for our rural support team on Raasay. As one of the largest employers across Highland, there are many more job opportunities available.

A village on Skye could be named Village of the Year in a nationally televised competition.

Tarskavaig, along with two other Highland villages, is in the running to claim the title.

The show will be hosted by Penelope Keith, who will judge entrants along with Alex Langlands, Juliet Sargeant and Patrick Grant.

From stunning coastal fishing villages to hillside farming communities and from outlandish artist colonies to the most traditional chocolate box villages, Village of the Year 2017 with Penelope Keith will celebrate all that is great about our rural communities.

The 24 x 60 series, produced by Reef Television will air across both daytime and peak.

Penelope will preside over heats, semi-finals and final, with a panel of expert judges deciding which villages will progress through the rounds before revealing their winner, based on the following criteria: Appearance; History & Heritage; Village Events; Activities; and Visitor Experience.

They will award their chosen village with the accolade of Village of the Year and £10,000 to be used for a worthwhile community project.

Broadford and Strath Community Company have been awarded funds from the National Lottery's good cause cash.

The announcement came today (Tuesday 16 January) and will mean the Skye company receives £142,060. The money will allow them to teach people how to grow their own food and will introduce a shed for people to learn and share practical skills.

The cash from the Big Lottery Fund goes to 24 community groups in many parts of the country to deliver a range of stimulating activities that will boost peoples' creativity, confidence and self-esteem.

Maureen McGinn, Chair, Big Lottery Fund Scotland, said: "Because people play the National Lottery, then great things can happen in their communities.

"Today's £6 million injection of funding is a perfect illustration, as it will create many new opportunities for people across Scotland to come together, learn and share skills.

"Thanks to this funding, thousands of Scots will have a stimulating New Year by being able to pursue a creative activity, acquire new skills such as growing and cooking or be able to take up volunteering opportunities."

Brexit, broadband, City-Region Deal and housing debt will be among some of the matters discussed by Highland Council’s Leader Cllr Margaret Davidson and Budget Leader Cllr Alister Mackinnon on a visit to the UK Government in London today (Tuesday 16 January 2018).

At a meeting with Lord Duncan, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Scotland they will be updating him on progress being made on the Inverness and Highland City-Region Deal.

They also intend raising the matter of Brexit and the implications that this will have on Highland. Cllrs Davidson and Mackinnon will be seeking further information on the UK Government’s potential support for tourism.

In addition, the digital connectivity of the Highlands will be raised with Lord Duncan as Cllrs Davidson and Mackinnon hope to find out how the UK Government can contribute to accelerating the roll out of broadband across the region.

Cllr Davidson will also be meeting the Economic Secretary to the Treasury, John Glen MP along with Ian Blackford MP for Ross, Skye and Lochaber.

MacKinnon Memorial Hospital in Skye has closed to new admissions following patients being diagnosed with flu.

Two patients have tested positive for flu and there are a further seven patients experiencing respiratory symptoms.

Visitors are being asked not to come to the hospital but staff will be happy to talk to them over the phone in order to provide them with updates on their loved ones. These measures are likely to be in place for the next five days.

Chrisann O'Halloran, senior charge nurse, said: “Flu is circulating in the community and has now impacted on the hospital here in Broadford. By restricting visiting to the affected areas it helps hospital staff protect the health, privacy and dignity of our patients.

“We fully appreciate there will be circumstances when visiting is of benefit to both patients and their families which we will look at on an individual basis and these can be discussed with myself as senior charge nurse.”

Kate Forbes MSP has written to Scotland's major public bodies and companies delivering public contracts asking them to take the lead in cracking down on plastic straws and other single-use plastics to save the environment.

The MSP for Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch recently launched her 'Final Straw' campaign, calling on businesses and consumers to commit to stop using disposable plastic straws and for governments to ban their use.

It is estimated that around 3 billion plastic straws are thrown away each year in Scotland – proving a significant pollutant in the seas around Scotland and risk to wildlife.

Kate Forbes MSP has now sought commitments from rail operator ScotRail and west coast ferry operator CalMac, asking them to go 'straw free' by not automatically providing plastic straws with drinks, and only providing paper or biodegradable straws when requested.

She has also written to Scotland's National Galleries and National Museums for similar action in their public cafes, and to Highland Council for action in catering and canteen facilities.

The Scottish Government has taken the lead in seeking to tackle the scourge of plastics as a major source of pollution across the world, and this week announced its intention to ban the sale and manufacture of plastic-stemmed cotton buds.

An application to the Climate Challenge Fund could develop Raasay Walled Garden even further, if the grant is awarded.

Raasay Roots Shoots & Fruits project began in April 2017, after a grant was given from the CCF. The grant will end in March 2018. Since the project began, over 200kg of produce has been supplied to the local shop and businesses on the islands.

Raasay Walled Garden Facebook page stated: "As you'll have seen if you've been able to attend our community events & consultations in 2017, we’ve got great plans for the garden in 2018 and the years ahead, but we do need to secure further funding to be able to develop and improve on what we have already achieved.

"We will hear whether our application to the CCF for a further two years funding has been successful by March but in the meantime we are continuing to explore other opportunities as well as getting on with the day to day work!"

A two year visual arts project has connected school pupils from Skye and Benbecula.

The pupils from Bunsgoil Shlèite, Skye and Bunsgoil Baile a' Mhanaich, Benbecula worked with professional artists through the medium of Gaelic.

The project, entitled An Cuan Sgìth/The Little Minch, was led by Lasair Ealain and supported by Sabhal Mòr Ostaig.

The aim of the project is to inspire and empower young people to draw their own environment, working with professional artists to encourage their individual forms of expression and a greater understanding of where they live.

After a series of drawing and painting workshops in their own landscapes the children from Bunsgoil Shlèite visited the pupils in Benbecula for 3 days enabling the children to work together with the artists in different sites, share evening activities through Gaelic and make new friends. At the end of the visit, the Balivanich pupils made the ferry journey across to Skye over An Cuan Sgìth (The Little Minch) drawing on the ferry with the Skye pupils and their teachers.

The suspension of visiting at Raigmore Hospital will remain in place this weekend.

Visiting was suspended on 08 January due to an increase in the number of flu cases within the hospital and evidence of flu being passed from visitor to patient. Visitors are allowed under special circumstances but this must be discussed and agreed with the nurse in charge of the ward. The suspension will be reviewed on Monday 15 January.

Catherine Stokoe, head of infection control for NHS Highland, explained that with evidence of flu now spreading across the community it is important that everyone does what they can to reduce the spread across hospitals.

She said: “Flu is circulating in the community and with more cases being confirmed across hospitals and care homes it is really important that everyone plays their part in limiting the spread as much as possible.

“Visiting remains suspended at Raigmore Hospital and it is restricted in Invergordon. We are also asking that anyone visiting other hospitals across the area that it is limited to two visitors per patients, children under the age of 16 are not brought in to visit patients and anyone with flu or respiratory symptoms are advised to stay away.

The two otters, whose names collectively make up the Gaelic for "whisky", will stay at the hospital until they are about a year old.

Uisge was found at Kilchoan on the Ardnamurchan peninsula after he had lost his mother. Fortunately he was taken to Hamza Yassin, a wildlife photographer who lives there, and he contacted the International Otter Survival Fund (IOSF) and arranged for the transfer to Skye. Uisge already had tiny teeth and so he was soon tucking into fish soup and is now eating pieces of fish.

The MSP for Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch – who also sits on Holyrood’s Environment Committee – raised the issue at First Minister’s Questions, and said she was encouraged by Ms Sturgeon’s response.

Whilst welcoming the intent behind the UK Government’s new environmental plans, Ms Forbes questioned the lack of urgency on action – adding that primary school pupils from Glasgow and the Highlands were able to make Ullapool a plastic straw-free village in a matter of months.

Kate Forbes MSP: “Thanks to the growing pressure of public concern about plastics, there has been a lot more discussion at the highest levels of the UK and Scottish Governments about cracking down on single-use plastics.

“Whilst I welcome Theresa May’s 25 year-plan, there have got to be tangible steps rather than just sympathy.

NHS Highland have blamed lack of suitable and affordable accommodation for recruitment problems on the island.

NHS Highland said concerns are growing about meeting the housing needs of key workers as this is hampering efforts to recruit and retain skilled healthcare personnel within the community.

Now health board management are calling on local knowledge for assistance, asking Skye residents to get in touch if anyone is willing to rent property or provide local accommodation solutions.

Specific concerns were brought into sharp focus this week when a recently-appointed highly-qualified midwife to Skye was very close to withdrawing from the post because she struggled to find suitable accommodation for herself and her dog. This was despite her making considerable efforts to find suitable housing and being extremely flexible over the choice of location. Jacqui Bradley, a fulltime midwife currently based in Edinburgh, had been appointed in December and is due to take up her post at the beginning of February.

With the Out of Hours Midwifery Service for Skye and Lochalsh suspended since mid-November because of the lack of qualified midwifery staff, it was crucial to recruitment a full-time midwife to allow for the full 24/7 restoration of the service.

Police in the Highlands and Islands say 37 people have been reported in connection with alleged drink or drug-related driving offences over the festive period.

The 31 day initiative involved high visibility patrols across the country aimed at removing tackling people who get behind the wheel under the influence.

A total of 37 people - 29 men and eight women - will be reported for alleged drink/drug driving offences, including four people who failed to provide a sample. A total of 654 drivers returned a negative sample after being stopped and tested.

Unleash your creativity and help Broadford and Strath Community Company find a name for their latest project.

The project aims to create a safe path linking Kyle and Broadford for families, dog-walkers and cyclists.

The community organisation say support has been strong at the two recent open meetings.

However, they say they need help to find a name for the project. Suggestions so far have been: Skye Path, Bike Skye, Skye Loch Alsh Path, Access Skye and Sea-Skye Path. Ideas should be sent to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

The organisation say: "Hopes are high for a long-term view of linking in with cycle-paths to Balmacara and maybe on to Portree in the future, so bear that in mind with your names.

"Anyone wanting to get involved is more than welcome, as it will take many hands to make this project a reality."

The MSP for Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch MSP is highlighting the damage caused by single-use disposable plastic items to both the onshore and marine environment in Scotland.

Items like plastic straws can take up to 500 years to decompose, despite only being used for less than half an hour. Ms Forbes, who sits on the Scottish Parliament's Environment, Climate Change and Reform Committee, wants to see a ban on plastic straws, as well as encouraging consumers and businesses to change their drinking habits.

The official launch was held at the Royal Hotel in Cromarty, one of the first businesses in her constituency to ditch plastic straws in favour of paper biodegradable ones.

Kate Forbes MSP said: "I represent a constituency which stretches from the east to the west coasts and I can see the impact of plastics on our seas.

"Along our coastline, plastics are choking our seas, damaging the environment and risking the lives of seabirds and sea creatures.

"One of the most common plastic items on the beach are plastic straws. We could be throwing out just under £3 billion straws every year in Scotland, based on US estimates of people using an average of 1.6 straws per day every year.

"The pub chain Wetherspoons have indicated that they consume 70 million straws a year in the UK and so the figures are huge.

"The ridiculous thing is that most people don't ask for a straw and they don't want one, but pubs and restaurants automatically pop it in their glass. That plastic straw could end up in our seas, causing damage to wildlife."

The race started at the Camanachd Clubhouse and consisted of a challenging uphill stretch and a return to the Clubhouse.

As well as being a talented runner, Andrew was recently awarded the Young People Award in the Eilean a’ Cheò Civic Awards 2017 in recognition of his hours of volunteer work.

Andrew was nominated by Nicholas Kelly, a Youth Worker with High Life Highland.

Andrew moved to Broadford last year whilst in his 6th year at High School and started volunteering with a small after school Dodgeball session for Primary aged children. For a year, he has delivered and managed weekly term sessions as a High Life Highland Young Leader, and has completed a Sports Leaders UK course, clocking-up well in excess of the 25 hours volunteering required.

Andrew's voluntary work also includes assisting at the Crossroads Shop in Portree and at the old folks home at An Acarsaid in Broadford.

The Highland Council is advising motorists that it will be carrying out necessary roadworks at the junction of Millburn Road - Diriebught Road, Inverness.

The works are expected to start on Tuesday 9 January 2018 (weather depending) and will last for approximately 3 weeks.

Drainage channels will be replaced and road resurfacing will be carried out both in the junction and central reserve areas. Contractor, Pat Munro of Alness will be carrying out the works for Highland Council.

Temporary traffic lights will be installed to avoid having to close the junction. To help avoid any major delays the lights will be manually operated between 7am to 7pm, to assist in keeping the traffic moving as best as possible.

NHS Highland have announced that there will be some changes to the hours patients will be seen and cite lack of cover as the reason. Normally the MIU/Urgent Care Centre operates from 8am to 11pm every day.

Today, however, the unit will be open from 10am to 10pm.

On Wednesday 3 January, Thursday 4 January and Friday 5 January, the Minor Injuries Unit will be open from 8am to 6pm. Outside of these hours, the service will be covered by the Rural Practitioner Team based at the Dr MacKinnon Memorial Hospital in Broadford.

Skye's sailors are on the crest of a wave after taking Scotland's top sailing award.

Against the odds the Portree based group were officially named RYA Scotland Club of the Year 2016 during a ceremony staged at the Glasgow Science Centre .

The boating community from around the country gathered as RYA Scotland recognised the achievements and outstanding commitment of Scotland’s volunteers, coaches, instructors, officials, clubs and performance sailors.

The theme throughout the evening returned to the boating ‘family’ as the support network that enables the vast range of activity represented across the ten award categories.

Skye Sailing Club was awarded the RYA Scotland Club of the Year award for their recent investments in the club and commitment to the local island community within the past year.

Four candidates have put forward their names forward for the West Highland area in the forthcoming Crofting Commission elections.

The area takes in Sutherland, Wester Ross, Skye & Lochalsh and ballot papers will be issued by post to all eligible electors and must be returned in the pre-paid envelope provided by 4.00 p.m. on Thursday 16th March 2017.

MSPs in the Western Isles and across the Highlands and Islands must all stand up for retention of the Highlands and Enterprise Board as a voice for the North of Scotland, says former Industry Minister Brian Wilson.In articles for this month’s EVENTS newspaper in Stornoway, Mr Wilson says: “For more than half a century, politicians of all parties have supported the existence of a distinct economic development agency to tackle the challenges faced by Highlands and Islands communities. “Progress made in that period has been attributable in no small measure to the strength and independence of HIE and, before it, the Highlands and Islands Development Board.“Now the Scottish Government is planning to subsume the HIE board into an ‘overarching’ Scotland-wide organisation, the remit of which will also include not only Scottish Enterprise but also Skills Development Scotland, the Scottish Higher and Further Education Funding Councils and Scottish Development International.

Lochcarron Community Development Company has recently received a £8,500 Awards for All grant.

The money will be used to make improvements to a community woodland site managed by the group.Awards For All Scotland gives groups a chance to apply for a grant of between £500 and £10,000 for projects that aim to help improve local communities and the lives of people most in need. They will fund a range of projects which involve bringing local people together, helping people learn, improving local spaces and getting people more active.http://www.biglotteryfund.org.uk/scotland.htm

De a-nis? on Tuesday 7 February, 6.30 – 7.00pm, features Lochaber Gaelic Primary School race against the clock in the schools' hopper challenge, Puingean nam Boingean and there's also a chance to meet Ross from Skye - you'll have to watch the programme to find out which Ross - who introduces us to his favourite hobbies in An Rud as Fheàrr Leam.

Uninsured drivers are to be targeted next week by Police Scotland, in partnership with the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB), in a week of action starting on Monday (January 30) and running through to Sunday (February 5).

Police Scotland has advised all drivers to ensure they are covered by valid insurance, prior to the campaign starting on Monday.

Road Policing Officers, who will be supported by their divisional colleagues, will use the latest intelligence to focus on known uninsured drivers and hotspots, with drivers found to be breaking the law facing points, fines and having their vehicle seized and potentially crushed.

Chief Superintendent Andy Edmonston, Head of Road Policing for Police Scotland, said: “This campaign will be delivered through a combination of mobile and static road checks, involving all Road Policing officers across Scotland with support from divisional colleagues across the entire country.

Co-op is recalling its Southern Fried Chicken Wrap (Chicken & Bacon Caesar Wrap) because it contains milk and shellfish which are not correctly declared on the labels. This means the product is a possible health risk for anyone with an allergy or intolerance to these foods.

The Spirit of Skye brings together Scotland’s finest whisky, gin, beer, music and food, the organisers say.

Isle of Skye Distillers, Crossbill Gin, Isle of Skye Brewery, Talisker, Diageo, R&B Distillers, Strathearn Distillery and Harris Gin are among the well-known names set to take part in the 2017 Festival which is taking place at Aros in Portree.

Four men from the Harbro Country Store in Portree have volunteered for a charity leg wax.

Set to take place on April 5 2017, the leg wax will raise money for various charities, including CLAN Cancer Support, JDRF Scotland, British Heart Foundation and Kidney Kids Scotland, as well as Alzheimer Scotland and Cancer Research UK.

Controversial plans over creating clusters of primary schools overseen by just one head have been discussed by Highland Council.

While five clusters, including one at Plockton were approved, others involving amongst them Mallaig and the Small Isles, were deferred.

Skye MSP Kate Forbes is one of those calling for more consultation over the whole plan which has been put forward, according to Education chief , Jim Stephen, not necessarily to save money, but about enhancing pupils' education.

Staffin Community Trust have confirmed they will soon be advertising to recruit a new member of staf to manage its ambitious Skye Ecomuseum II project.

The full-time post is a new job, which will be funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) until September 2019 and will be in addition to the local development officer’s role currently carried out by Hugh Ross.

SCT is hoping to advertise the job within the coming weeks, once it gets the official project permission to start from HLF. The successful candidate will manage the project, with particular emphasis on the activity programme.

Scotland's leading creative industries conference and showcase is looking for the next generation of filmmakers, writers and musicians to showcase their work in front of industry insiders in Inverness this coming June.

The submission window to showcase at this year's XpoNorth runs until Saturday 1st April and delegate registration, which is free, is now open and organisers are inviting anyone with an interest in pursuing a career in the creative industries to sign up.

Highlands and Islands-based creative industries network, XpoNorth, is funded by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) and the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

Police would like to make public aware of a report of lost medication in the Kyle of Lochalsh area.

The medication, which is believed to have been lost on Tuesday (January 24) could be harmful to children if consumed. Any person finding medication should hand it in to the nearest Pharmacy or Kyle Police Station.

Highlands and Island's MSP Rhoda Grant is the latest politican to give her backing to Raasay's fight for improved out of hours medical cover.

After travelling over to the island she said: "I am supporting the Raasay community in its campaign to have a professional nursing presence 24/7 after visiting the island this week to talk to Raasay Community Council and Raasay Development Trust, and being persuaded by residents’ arguments.

"I feel that if the island is to develop economically and socially, the presence of a nurse, in the evenings and at weekends, would provide reassurance and security both for residents and visitors, especially in the absence of an easily accessible GP.

"Ideally any nurse serving Raasay should be able to deal with children under 16, a service which current NHS Highland protocol says cannot be provided.

"What struck me was the genuine concerns of the community and the undisputable fact that they are in a very vulnerable situation, separated from health services by a stretch of water and a ferry service which doesn’t run over night and has a limited service on Sundays.

Two new distilleries opening and now a festival dedicated to Whisky. Skye and Raasay look set to be THE places to be this year if you enjoy a dram.

Plans are already being put in place for this summer's Spirit of Skye event which is to be staged at Portree's Aros Centre.

There will be a chance to meet, greet and learn from the whisky masters, sample the best drams, beers and gins from our renowned region. Relax and enjoy live music and entertainment with an exciting mix of tastings, food pairing classes and mixology demonstrations.

At the same time visitors can watch one of Scotland’s finest chefs in a cookery demonstration using the freshest local produce and finest quality spirits.

An organisation established by Skye's Sir Iain Noble may be no more but its work to help young Gaels will go on.

It was back in 1987 that Sir Iain brought together figures from the business world with the aim of helping young people in their chosen careers.

However, after nearly three decades of such work officials behind the original Club Gnìomhachas nan Gàidheal decided in 2015 that the best way of continuing the work of the club was to transfer the remaining funds to another Gaelic organisation.

Builder Iain Fraser's support for others over the years has brought official recognition.

For the Lochalsh based tradesman has found himself singled out by the Isle of Skye Rotary Club for his outstanding contribution to the local community.

During a special ceremony staged at Sleat's Duisdale Hotel, last night (January 24) Iain, who runs Inverinate based A Fraser Builders stepped forward to receive a special presentation of the Maurice Nicol Award to mark his achievement.

Seaweed. You can cook with it. You can use it as fertilizer. And now, as the Isle of Skye Paint Company has proved, you can paint with it.

The company's co-owners, Starsky and Carol, say of the seaweed: "We wanted to use an ingredient in our paint that was sustainable and eco-friendly, as well as readily available here on Skye. The seaweed acts as a gelling agent and thickens the paint. It also gives the paint a creamier texture, makes it go further and reduces splattering. No other manufacturers use seaweed in their paint as far as we are aware."

Wheels have been set in motion for Skye to establish its own Community Cycle Club.

Cycling UK worked with 81 community groups across Scotland during September and October last year to deliver the Big Bike Revival, a 6 week intervention aimed at encouraging people to cycle for everyday journeys.

Their intervention seen over 500 events and activities take place during these months. They would like to support more community organisations engage in cycling activity by developing Community Cycle Clubs. Some more information on Community Cycle Clubs and how to become one is detailed below.

When Scottish writer Ross Sayers wanted a stunning setting for his debut novel then where else would he have chosen...but Skye.

And now, from the end of the month islanders can pick up a copy and possibly even read about themselves!

His novel, "Mary’s the Name", tells the story of eight-year-old Mary who lives with her granpa in Stirling - Ross' home town - but they have to leave home suddenly and flee to the Isle of Skye after being caught up in a robbery at the bookies

His research for the novel included a trip to Portree. “It was important to me to give a real sense of Portree in the book,’ Ross told us. ‘And there’s no substitute for actually visiting the place you’re writing about.”

Staffin is pressing ahead with its aim to build the first new affordable homes for the locality in nearly two decades.

Despite apparent opposition from Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) the Staffin Community Trust (SCT) have confirmed that architects have now been appointed to design the six new houses and a business unit proposed for Stenscholl Common Grazings, close to the school and main road.

Back in December the Scottish Government’s Rural Housing Fund and the Scottish Land Fund both approved grants for the scheme.

That funding has allowed the Trust to appoint Skye architectural firm, Rural Design, to design the development. There will be close consultation with the Stenscholl township’s croft tenants, local residents, the Kilmuir Estate and the wider community.

Road improvement plans on two sections of the A87 are set to begin early in February.

The £300,000 resurfacing will impact on motorist using the major route between Strollamus and Dunan on Skye and also at the village of Inverinate. The work will see both sections of the route resurfaced to address any cracks, potholes or other defects along this section to create a smoother and safer journey for motorists.

Sixty places are available for this summer’s Fèis Thròndairnis, organisers have confirmed.

Young Trotternish people, aged between 8 and 18-years-old, are encouraged to participate in the fèis, which has grown in popularity in recent years. The organising committee aims to provide high calibre tuition and an enjoyable learning/social experience for young people.

Staffin Community Trust have set the end of January as their deadline to submit ambitious improvement plans for The Storr.

The Trust have made clear the need to bring changes to the popular visitor attraction following growing concerns about issues ranging from road safety to lack of toilet facilities.

In their Winter newsletter they say: “An options appraisal into the site by an experienced consultant team, including an architect, identified a preferred option and is nearing completion.

“This would see the Staffin Community Trust (SCT) purchase part of the Highland Council-owned site and develop a new car park, toilets and small shelter with space for interpretation promoting Staffin and its businesses.

Police say that after a fly tipping incident in Kyle a man has been charged.

Described as a "local man" he will now be reported to the Procurator Fiscal with a view to prosecution. In the meantime if members of the public spot any further similar incidents they are urged to call 101 and police have pledged to taken action.

Skye MSP Kate Forbes says she had a "productive" meeting with one of the Scottish Government's senior figures to discuss rising tourist numbers on the island and growing pressure on its infrastructure.

The local politican met with Fiona Hyslop, Cabinet Secretary for Culture, Tourism and External Affairs, to look at ways forward as parts of Skye struggle to cope with the increasing demands placed on it.

She said: "It was particularly useful looking at what is working well in other places – such as the Business Improvement District focused on tourism in Loch Lomond or the co-operative in Argyll and Bute. I have also invited the Cabinet Secretary to visit the Isle of Skye.

"With these growing numbers in mind, we need to look well ahead and I would like to see businesses, communities and public bodies develop a Skye Tourist Development Plan which could strategically plan for the next few years.

Two spirits of a different came together for a special evening in Sleat.

As part of the build up to the opening of Skye's newest whisky producer, the Torabhaig Distillery, owners Mossburn Distillers staged an evening reception at the Talla Mòr, Sabhal Mòr Ostaig which was hosted by Visit Sleat.

And as an added touch of the exotic they invited along representatives from the Akashi Sake Brewery Company located in the city of Hyogo on Japan's southern island of Honshu, with who they have a joint venture.

In fact the distillers are set to become the first Scottish company to produce Japanese whisky in Japan. To mark the occasion two executives of the Sake company were in Sleat to introduce the community to their national drink as well as some stunning Japanese whisky.

Police in Portree are seeking help to track down those responsible for damage to a home in Urquhart Place. The incident, on Wednesday evening (January 18) involved a window being broken. Anyone who can help should call 101.

Skye figures in several of the programmes due to be screened by BBC Alba over the coming weeks.

In De a-nis? Tuesday 31 January, from 6.30 – 7.00pm Megan and her friend Sara introduce us to the fiddle, their favourite musical instrument, you can find out how Kilmuir Primary School in Skye fare in this week's hopper challenge, Puingean nam Boingean, and Tia from Lewis tells us about her favourite pastimes.

Step into Guillemot, the new boutique on Wentworth Street, and you are stepping into a shop that has long been the dream of owner, Liza Hawthorne.

Liza, who owns the Isle of Skye Baking Company along with her husband Barry, says: "I have always wanted a little boutique. I wanted it to have a quirky name, and I had seen pictures of Black Guillemots with their red legs. I thought Guillemot was a perfect name - evocative of Skye and Scotland."

Police in the Highlands have thanked members of the public for their vigilance and assistance in providing information on incidents of hare coursing in the north.

Hare coursing is the illegal pursuit of hares by dogs resulting in a barbaric, terrifying death for the animal.

PC Dan Sutherland, Divisional Wildlife Crime Officer, explains: “We’ve issued a number of appeals recently relating to crime in the rural environment and following contact from members of the public, Police in Inverness have reported three individuals to the Procurator Fiscal for hare coursing in the Ardersier area.

Experiences gained on Skye have been helping to form a national picture of how communities in Scotland help themselves and each other.

A new study has found that Scotland’s disconnected communities could be costing the local economy £731 million every year. This constitutes a portion of the £32 billion that makes up the total UK-wide cost.

The research, commissioned by Eden Project initiative The Big Lunch and funded by the Big Lottery, reveals the annual cost to Scotland’s public services of social isolation and disconnected communities, including:

Emily Watts, Country Manager Scotland for Eden Project Communities said: “This piece of research only deepens our commitment to encourage communities to connect with one another and take whatever action they feel will best benefit their area. We know that people who live in a place have a unique knowledge about what will work. We hear stories every year about how people feel better and more resilient after taking part in things like our mass participation event ‘The Big Lunch’ or by simply doing things where they live that benefit the community.”

The Big Lunch is one of Eden’s most significant and best known initiatives, made possible by the Big Lottery Fund. The idea is for as many people as possible across the UK to have lunch with their neighbours annually on a Sunday in June, in a simple act of community, friendship and fun.

In Portree Lesley Hellon who runs the Youth Drop in was instrumental in pulling together a Big Lunch event which, unsurprisingly, was hit by the weather.

Leader of The Highland Council, Margaret Davidson has welcomed the outcome of the vote in the Scottish Parliament on the motion to reverse the decision to scrap the Board of Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE).

Cllr Davidson said: “This vote sends a strong message to the Scottish Government about their incessant centralising agenda and we would now urge Ministers to reconsider their entire approach. Centralisation completely contradicts the move towards localism and communities being involved in decision making and having services which reflect their local needs and geography.”

Cllr Davidson joined with the Leaders of all the local authorities in the Highlands and Islands, in writing to Cabinet Secretary Keith Brown, in December, in a call to protect local decision making for Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE). This was in addition to the motion agreed by Highland Council in December, and numerous correspondence and meetings with Keith Brown MSP and Fergus Ewing MSP.

From 1 April 2017 the Scottish Government is changing the basis on which properties are assessed for Council Tax and this will increase the charge for Council Tax properties that are banded E to H.

The Highland Council say they have no discretion in this matter and must apply these increases to the Council Tax charges although households living in properties in Bands A-D are not affected by these increases.

The FilmG jury panels comprised of industry professionals including producers, directors and scriptwriters from all over Scotland, as well as top sports commentators given the inclusion of the new Sports Commentary Category this year.

One of this year’s panelists is BeesNees Media Director, Duncan MacDonald who said: “It is great to see so many filmmakers of all ages engage in this competition. This year we have seen a wide range of films and individual takes on the topic and those making the shortlist had a clear narrative and viewpoint. It's not always about technical brilliance - heart and soul come through strongly in the best work.”

Highland and Islands Police are working in partnership with local authority Trading Standards across the division, advising residents to remain vigilant to door step criminals.

Bad weather can often bring with it damage to property, resulting in an increase in bogus callers in local communities. Criminals will use the weather as an opportunity to attempt to con you.

Reputable businesses will never cold call you looking for work and you should always seek more than one quote for any work you are planning.

Police Scotland will remain vigilant and numerous Doorstep Crime campaigns/initiatives have and will be carried out along with Trading Standards and other partner agencies. As proved in the past, anyone caught carrying out this despicable type of crime WILL be dealt with robustly.

By following the steps detailed below, you will reduce the chances of falling victim to doorstep crime. Stay vigilant for elderly relatives, neighbours and friends – especially if they live alone.

The Crofting Commission has welcomed the announcement from the Cabinet Secretary for the Rural Economy and Connectivity, Fergus Ewing MSP, of the appointment of Malcolm Mathieson as a Commissioner of the Crofting Commission from 1 January 2017 and the reappointment of David Campbell as a Commissioner of the Crofting Commission from 1 April 2017.

The Scottish Crofting Federation (SCF) is appealing to crofters, especially women and young crofters, to stand as candidates for the Crofting Commissioner elections.

“It is imperative that we get a decent number of experienced crofters to stand for the election of Crofting Commissioners”, said Russell Smith, Chair of the SCF. “So we are encouraging people to stand. We want a range of candidates for crofters to choose from, including women and young people, with contested elections in all constituencies so that the best people get in. We are convinced that the only way to get the Commission back to good health is to get the right people on to the Commission board.

“Gender balance in government has been topical in the press lately and it is no less important in crofting regulation. We need a fair representation of women on the board of the Crofting Commission.

Skye MP Ian Blackford looks set to continue his campaign to ensure one of the island's main ferry services stops being a "farce."

Days after the new summer timetable for the Mallaig - Armadale route was announced the local representative made clear his feelings.

He said: "This is nothing short of a shambles, with reduced or delayed sailings as a result of predicted low tides. How can anyone be expected to plan journeys around services which may or may not run?

Police have confirmed that four men are to be reported to the Procurator Fiscal in connection with the alleged distribution of counterfeit banknotes in the Highlands.

Officers from Divisional Road Policing Unit alongside local officers stopped a vehicle on the A9 in Ross-shire yesterday (Monday 16th January 2017) and detained the four men; aged 25, 23, 20 and 16.

Police Scotland are reminding the public, particularly those who are employed in shops or who regularly handle cash, to be aware of counterfeit banknotes and to report any suspicious incidents to Police.

Charities and community amateur sports clubs are able to keep more of the money they raise under an exemption scheme.

Since 2015, the Water and Sewerage Charges Exemption Scheme has helped more than 7,700 charities and amateur sports clubs to save around £4 million every year.

The scheme means eligible charities registered with the Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator, as well as community amateur sports clubs with an income of less than £200,000, do not need to pay water and sewerage charges. Those with incomes between £200,000 and £300,000 will pay a reduced rate.

Emergency culvert replacement works are taking place along the A86 and will affect early evening and late night travellers especially.

The works are required to repair two culverts which have partially collapsed. Temporary traffic management has been installed at both locations to make the area safe and protect road users until the repairs can be completed.

The repairs are expected to take five nights to complete. Works will be split into two phases, with the first phase repairing the culvert at Lochan Uvie, close to the village of Laggan, and the second phase taking place at Gorstean, one mile south of Laggan.

Due to the nature of the culvert repairs, a full road closure is required between 7pm and 7am, starting on Monday 16 January, to protect roadworkers as well as motorists during the works.

Ward 2C at Raigmore Hospital has been closed to new admissions following a number of patients being diagnosed with flu.

Three patients have tested positive for flu and as a precaution the ward has been closed.Relatives and friends are being asked to avoid visiting Ward 2C if at all possible and should telephone the nurse in charge before travelling to the hospital.

The Ward can be reached by calling the Raigmore Hospital Switchboard on 01463 704 000.

It sounds like a dream job. Live in one of the best places in the UK, wonderful scenery, chance to travel, access to Michelin star restaurant, great education for children and plenty of opportunity to wildlife spot.

Where is it? Well south Skye of course. For those are just some of the incentives being put forward by NHS Highland to attract a new part-time GP to the island.

Waternish Community Hall Committee have become the latest on Skye to hit out at new election polling station plans from Highland Council.

Following on from complaints made by Braes, the Waternish group have also voiced their serious concerns about the scheme to switch polling stations from their traditional Village Hall sites to local schools.

Highland Council claim the move would save cash but local people believe it could result in many, particularly those without transport, missing out on their right to vote.

Urging anyone else with similar views to email them to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Waternish Community Hall (SCIO) Committee member, Judith Hodgkin said: “ I have only just heard about this proposal and find that your consultation timetable happened over Christmas and New Year when our local committee was busy organising local events. Clearly we have missed the deadline to respond and I wish to express my concern about this.

Glendale is very quickly becoming the centre of the universe, at least when it comes to seeing the Northern Lights.

For now thanks to local man, Andy Stables and his obsession with the sky high show, up to a 1,000 people a night are logging on to an app he has created which accurately predicts just when the fantastic light show can be seen.

A part-time crofter and also working as a web developer, Andy set up home on Skye with his wife Alison ten years ago and since then his love of the stars, and particularly the Northern Lights has just grown and grown.

Andy

He said: "I got into star gazing by accident as there’s so much space and dark skies here you can’t help but look up at the stars. I’d seen the auroras a few times without fully realising what I was seeing, then during strong displays I’d see distinct columns and try to capture these on camera.

Following the first stage of the public consultation on the Review of Polling places in Highland, the Returning Officer has published proposals and further responses are now invited.

According to Highland Council the aim of the review is to ensure that every elector in the area has reasonable facilities for voting and that the polling places are accessible for all electors including those who are disabled.

Highlands and Islands Labour MSP, Rhoda Grant, has lashed out at the response she has received regarding the future of Highlands and Islands Enterprise.

She said she was both "astonished and angered" by the comments coming from the Scottish Government on HIE decision making powers when a new overarching Scotland-wide board is established.

The MSP asked, in a Parliamentary Question, if Highlands and Islands Enterprise will continue to decide the strategic priorities for its investment and social development in the Highlands and Islands following the establishment of the single Scotland-wide board for enterprise and skills.

NHS Highland is seeking to recruit public members to two of the board’s advisory committees and one of their advisory groups.

The committees are the Asset Management Group and the Area Clinical Forum. The advisory group is the NHS Highland and NHS Western Isles Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) Screening Programme Steering Group.

Volunteers from local communities are being asked to join board members, senior clinicians and managers to help oversee the board’s work in a number of key management and clinical areas.

SEALL - Skye Events for All - will be staging their A.G.M. followed by an open session on Monday 16 January.

The event runs from 7pm-9pm at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, Seòmar Cruinneachaidh and all members and supporters are invited along.

According to the organisers: "Business will be short and to the point and last less than 30 minutes. We already have one new Board Member nominated and are always looking to extend our skills. Contact us on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for more information.

Launch of HITRANS Thistle Assistance Card for Public Transport at Kyleakin – Pictured are Charlene Macleod manager of Kyleakin Connections, HITRANS Board Member Councillor Audrey Sinclair and Stagecoach Area Manager, Iain Beaton, with members of the Day Care centre at Kyleakin

Kyleakin has helped kickstarted a new region-wide scheme to provide a quick and easy way for those with a disability to get help when using public transport, particularly buses.

HITRANS, the regional transport partnership for the Highlands and Islands, has introduced a new Thistle Assistance Card which the holder can use to advise the bus driver/public transport operator of any special help that is required.

The scheme was publicly launched in Kyleakin, Skye, by Councillor Audrey Sinclair, who is Highland Councillor for Wester Ross, Strathpeffer and Lochalsh and a member of the HITRANS Board.

A new online safety training programme designed to prevent young people from being at risk of cyber bullying and digital misuse is to be rolled out across Scotland.

Designed in conjunction with global cyber security giant, Trend Micro, the online safety programme, “Be Smart”, addresses the core vulnerabilities facing young people of cyber bullying, sexual content and their online profile.

“ Be Smart” - as part of the Choices for Life programme, which is delivered by Police Scotland on behalf of the Scottish Government - aims to create a team of young people (including senior school pupils), youth workers and parent groups who will be equipped with the tools to ‘start the conversation’ with young people about online safety.

Do you know a young person who would benefit from this opportunity? This training programme will also help local communities to build capacity and make the most of their community centres.

GET IN is a free and fun project which brings young people together from across the Highlands and Islands to learn to promote events and ultimately organise a tour of a live performance to their communities.

The Touring Network’s year-long Youth Promoter project provides young people aged between 16-26, who live in the Highlands & Islands, with the training, knowledge and expertise required to programme the live events they want to see in their communities.

The Glendale Trust is to hold a housing open day on the Saturday 21st January between 1-4pm at the Community Hall.

Local Development Officer, Elizabeth MacLeod said: “We look forward to seeing you at the open day and hearing your views. There will also be the opportunity to register your interest in the various affordable housing options that the trust may consider.

Ferry operator Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac) is warning anyone planning to travel by ferry tomorrow and into Thursday that strong winds are forecast in many parts of its network leading to possible disruption of ferry services.

Operations Director Drew Collier said: “Weather forecasts for across the west of Scotland are predicting a windy and cold run up to the weekend. We will review sailings on a case by case basis but would advise anyone planning to travel by ferry to take this into account when planning journeys in the next few days."

Skye's New Year Honours list recipient, Marjory Jagger, is the latest local to get a mention in the Scottish Parliament.

Just days after lodging a motion to commend local police for their tweeting success, Labour MSP the Highlands and Islands, Rhoda Grant, has done it again, this time to mark the long-serving manager of Skye and Lochalsh Young Carers achievement in receiving the British Empire Medal.

The MSP said: "I visited Ms Jagger and the group in the summer and chatted to some of the young people that it helps. It was obvious that the youngsters, from a wide age range, received tremendous support, not only from those running the project but from other young carers who were in the same position.

Skye MP Ian Blackford and his MSP counterpart Kate Forbes are amongst the first to express their "disappointment" at Calmac's 2017 plans for the Mallaig - Armadale service.

Meanwhile Sleat Transport Forum have also made clear their dissatisfaction and their views on the matter can be seen below.

Mr Blackford said: "I have jointly written to Scottish Transport Minister Humza Yousaf expressing disappointment that newly introduced Caledonian MacBrayne Summer timetable has once again failed to properly serve the Mallaig – Armadale route and to call for a meeting with him to discuss options.

Calmac have announced their summer timetable and plans which, they hope, will solve issues surrounding ferry cancellations on the Mallaig-Armadale route.

The main timetable change of note is the company’s intention to deploy two vessels on the Skye crossing to allow the MV Coruisk to provide much needed additional capacity on the very busy Oban-Craignure route. This despite strong calls to bring the Coruisk back to Skye

The Crofting Commission has issued the third Crofting Census. Crofters are legally obliged to inform the Commission, on an annual basis, whether or not they are complying with their crofting duties. The Census form must be completed and returned to the Commission before the 31 March 2017.

The annual Crofting Census allows the Commission to gather an evidence base which is being built on year by year. There has been a high rate of return over the last two years with the 2015 Crofting Census resulting in over 4,000 changes being made to the Crofting Commission’s Register of Crofts.

Chris James continued his winning ways in the Skye and Lochalsh Running Club's Winter series with another first place this time at the Glenmore 10k

And, in a mirror finish of the series' last race at Braes, Gareth Craft finished runner up with just eight seconds spliting the top two places.

The Running Club said: "The Glenmore Races attracted a good turnout of runners for the first Winter Race Series event of 2017, possibly helped by the particularly benign weather conditions. The day started off with the 2-mile fun run which was won, again, by Ross MacLeod, closely followed by Jamie Mackinnon. First girl back was Tabitha Jones and in second place was Kirsty Murray. The Secondary prizes were won by Tom Rees and Rachel Shaw.

Seven competitors took part in the 4-mile ‘extra’ fun run. In first place was Erica Fowler (32.30) and in second place was Emily Matheson (33.00). First male home was Dylan Hughes (40.44).

The 10k proved to be very competitive with both the male and female winners being pushed right to the line. First home was Chris James in a time of 41 minutes and nine seconds. He was closely followed by Gareth Craft in 41 minutes and 17 seconds. Third male back was Ali Gunn (43.36). In the ladies race, Rosanna Macdonald led right up to the finish straight where she was overtaken by Carolyn Hare to win in a time of 54 minutes and 44 seconds, with Rosanna finishing in 54 minutes 49 seconds. Third lady home was Clara Connell (55.32).

The lastest planning matters lodged with Highland Council include a series of retrospective and full applications by Lochalsh and Skye Housing Association in regard to the installation of external heat pump units.

Police in the Highlands are re-issuing advice and a reminder to the public to be vigilant following a spate of telephone scams.

A number of people have been targeted by fraudsters over the festive season following different scams used over the telephone.

In the majority of cases the criminals phone individuals claiming to be a representative from their bank and advise them that their bank account has been compromised. The victim is then encouraged to transfer their money into an account provided by the fraudster.

This type of fraud is commonly known as 'vishing' and while incidents are most commonly known to occur on the phone. This advice also applies to Internet security, where fraudsters will ask for an individual's details, purporting to represent a computer company because they have a virus on their home computer

The Avian Influenza Prevention Zone announced on 6 December 2016 is to be extended until 28 February 2017, the Scottish Government has confirmed.

The Prevention Zone applies to all poultry and captive birds in Scotland, and requires keepers to continue to keep their birds indoors, or take appropriate practical steps to keep them separate from wild birds. There is also a GB-wide ban on poultry shows and gatherings.

All bird keepers must also take extra steps to ensure good biosecurity on their premises and minimise the risk of infection and further spread of Avian Influenza. Extra steps include:

•making sure that your birds’ feed and water can’t be accessed by wild birds•avoiding transfer of contamination between premises by cleansing and disinfecting equipment, vehicles and footwear•reducing the movement of people, vehicles or equipment to and from areas where poultry or captive birds are kept•implementing effective vermin control around buildings where poultry or captive birds are kept•providing wash facilities or dips containing approved disinfectant (at the right concentration) at key points such as farm entrances and entrances to bird houses

Cabinet Secretary for Rural Economy Fergus Ewing said: “We have decided to extend the original Prevention Zone to 28 February as a precautionary measure to protect Scotland’s valuable poultry industry.

Work on three bridges along the A82 begins next week (January 9) meaning likely delays for travellers through until Spring time.

An investment of £1.2M from Transport Scotland has been awarded for improvements to the A82 Laggan Swing Bridge, Aberchalder Swing Bridge and Invergarry Bridge. All are set for upgrades which will help strengthen and prolong the resilience of each bridge, ensuring they remain in a safe working condition for years to come.

Laggan Swing Bridge and Aberchalder Swing Bridge will be painted with a specialist protective layer to help prevent the steelwork from deteriorating. Specialist contractors will apply a new protective coating system which is designed to last for a minimum of 25 years. This work is similar to previous schemes that were completed on the Banavie and Fort Augustus Swing Bridges in March 2016.

Police are appealing to anyone in the Kyle of Lochalsh or Tomich/Glen Affric areas to assist them in establishing the whereabouts of Cornelius Hendrick Van Der Wetering.

Mr Van Der Wetering, aged 54, is a Dutch national, believed to be walking in the Glen Affric area. He was last seen in the Tomich area on Wednesday 28th December 2016, having previously stayed in guest house accommodation in Inverness. It is understood that he planned to walk from Tomich towards Kyle of Lochalsh via Glen Affric.

Dinosaur lovers can breathe a sign of relief after confirmation that no lasting damage has been caused to Staffin beach’s famous footprints.

There was a major outcry over the New Year after police begin investigating alleged damage to the 165 million year old dinosaur prints.

However, following a thorough investigation Police Scotland have confirmed that they have managed to trace the person who was said to be responsible and the matter is to be taken no further.

A spokesperson said: “Initially we receive several calls from concerned members of the public that permanent damage might have been caused to the prints, possibly with cement being poured into them.

“However, that has proved not to be the case and after full investigation we can say that there was no criminality in this matter and no lasting damage caused to the prints. Reports of damage were made to Police Scotland and we had a duty to follow this up."

In fact according to Dugald Ross who runs the Staffin Dinosaur Museum having checked out the footprints he has not been able to see any real damage and said: “"Someone was seen taking a plaster cast of one of them. He was quite open in his intentions and this wasn’t done with malicious intent

Dugald Ross

“He obviously did it in broad daylight and somebody reported him to the police and used the word damaged. It really blew the whole thing out of proportion.

A local MP is attempting to come up with a compromise deal which could bring an end to the current war of words over the future of Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE).

Ian Blackford who represents Ross, Skye and Lochaber believes that his new initiative would bring a “win-win” situation for the development agency.

He has written to Economy Secretary Keith Brown proposing that the controversial new national board goes ahead, but that HIE retains its own management or advisory board as well.

Mr Blackford said: “I fully endorse the establishment of an over-arching board which in my view will create an essential focus of collaboration and best practice that will allow agencies such as HIE to continue to be an engine for economic and community advancement in the Highlands and islands.

Sheepdogs, the ever-popular BBC ALBA series, returns this January and once again showcases the best competition from national and international sheepdog trials across the UK and Ireland.

Across eight programmes, Donald MacSween and Catriona MacPhee will present the very best action from the trialling scene.

In programmes one and two, Donald and Catriona visit local trials at Harelaw and Blairgowrie. At Harelaw, a rough terrain doesn’t appear to affect the quality of runs from David Kinloch and Nell, Jock Welsh and Cree and Stuart Davidson and Queen. At Blairgowrie, meanwhile, the big handlers compete, with Ian Brownlie, Neil Campbell, John McKillop and Jock Welsh all aiming to chalk up some season points. Everyone performs well but it’s Rook who runs an almost perfect run for handler Andy Carnegie.

Police Scotland and the Scottish Police Authority (SPA) have launched their Gaelic Language Plans spanning the coming five years.

The documents set out how the police service and the police authority will develop their contributions to creating a sustainable future for Gaelic in Scotland and integrating Gaelic within Police Scotland services across the country. Gaelic has been visual within Police Scotland, and its legacy forces, for many years and although the majority of Gaelic-speaking communities are in the Highlands and Islands region, they exist throughout Scotland and all are served by the national force.

From 2017 the Police Scotland corporate logo will be rendered bilingual as standard across the service and in its branded material, demonstrating equal respect for Gaelic and English. Enhanced opportunities for the public to communicate with Police Scotland and the SPA in Gaelic, and receive responses in Gaelic, are also being explored, along with producing an increased number of corporate publications in Gaelic.

The revolutionary new 12-sided £1 coin will enter circulation on 28 March, the government has said, starting a six-month countdown to the abolition of the familiar circular £1 coin.The round £1 will be legal tender alongside the new, more-secure coin until 15 October.The public are being urged to use their current £1 coins or bank them before they lose their legal tender status.All businesses which handle cash will need to prepare for the introduction of the new £1 coin, especially the period when the new £1 coin and the old £1 coin are in circulation at the same time; and finally demonetisation, when the current £1 coin is no longer legal tender, after October 15.